Should an Artist Be Committed?
This is a question that resonates deeply with me, both as an artist and as a human being.
When we hold strong convictions or care deeply about certain causes, it feels natural to want to commit to them, to give direction to what we do. This reflection becomes even more meaningful for me as a mother of two daughters. What will I pass on to them? What legacy will I leave behind?
These questions, both daunting and essential, are intrinsically linked to our role as parents: guiding our children toward their adult lives while instilling values, perspectives, and a vision of the world.
The Artist’s Trace: Material and Symbolic
As a visual artist, the notion of leaving a trace takes on a unique dimension. There is, of course, the material imprint left by a painting, a sculpture, or a photograph. These works are fragments of our existence, testimonies of our emotions, and our outlook on the world.
But there is also another kind of trace: the narrative, the meaning, and the why behind each creation. To create is already an act of commitment. Painting every day, persevering, searching, and exploring—it’s a testament to fidelity to oneself and a vision of the world.
Commitment in All Its Forms
Commitment isn’t just about activism. It’s a multifaceted act that can touch on politics, society, culture, and even economics. Commitment can be explicit, such as through works addressing social or environmental issues. But it can also be more subtle: bringing art to spaces where it isn’t expected or transforming the mundane into an aesthetic experience.
I consider myself a committed artist:
To give meaning.
To use art as a tool for inspiration, communication, and positive impact.
To bring art everywhere: to public spaces, private places, and into people’s homes.
To explore how art can enrich our environments and fuel our commitments.
My Two Main Commitments
Two causes are particularly close to my heart and deeply influence my artistic work:
1️⃣ Women.
My cultural heritage and personal experience as a woman have shaped my sensitivity to this cause. Being a woman artist often means challenging preconceived notions and claiming a space that is still too frequently marginalized. Through my creations, I strive to highlight the strength, resilience, and diversity of women’s experiences.
2️⃣ Nature, particularly the ocean.
The ocean is a source of life, a powerful tool for decarbonization, and a space that is both fragile and vital. It symbolizes the interconnectedness of all living beings. My fascination with the ocean guides much of my work, whether it’s exploring its textures, its movements, or its role in our ecosystem.
Art as a Bridge to Commitment
Art has a unique ability to transcend barriers, open dialogues, and touch hearts. For me, being a committed artist doesn’t mean imposing ideas or answers. It means creating spaces for reflection, asking questions, and inviting others to see the world differently.
And you, what fuels your commitment? What trace would you like to leave in this world?